The unnamed narrator is part of an all-male friend group that has decided to execute one of their own. He maintains a matter-of-fact, detached tone when discussing the logistical details of a hanging. He advocates for using a rope instead of wire to protect the chosen tree, focusing heavily on practical and aesthetic aspects of the event rather than ethical concerns.

Colby is a member of the friend group who has committed a vague offense. Despite being the target of the planned execution, he actively participates in the event's planning. He treats his own punishment somewhat like a social gathering, requesting specific live music for the occasion and suggesting alternative execution methods like a firing squad.

Howard is an impatient, uncompromising member of the friend group who takes a leading role in the logistical planning. He frequently dismisses Colby's personal requests, rejecting a Charles Ives symphony as too costly and waving away the idea of a firing squad as an ego trip. He prioritizes the group's efficiency and vision over accommodating the condemned man.

Hank is a quiet member of the friend group who largely stays silent during aesthetic discussions about invitations and orchestras. When he finally contributes to the practical planning, he suggests using wire instead of rope for a quicker, more efficient hanging. The rest of the group finds this detail unpleasantly blunt.

Victor is a member of the friend group heavily focused on the visual presentation of the upcoming event. He worries that an unpainted gibbet might look too "raw." This focus on trivial, aesthetic details reveals his emotional detachment from the planned act.

Tomas is a member of the friend group who actively contributes to the collective effort. He volunteers to research gibbet designs, showing a willingness to support the group's decisions through practical tasks and teamwork.